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Licensing expert, Catherine Cooney, prepared "A 'Quick Guide' to Restaurant Licensing"  for members of the Restaurant Association of Ireland ("RAI") providing useful tips for both current and prospective licence holders. Click here to read the guide

All licensing applications brought on behalf...

An EU Directive providing additional rights to temporary agency workers will come into force across Europe by 5 December 2011. In the UK the rules are set to come into force earlier on 1 October. The UK agreed a derogation of the Directive which will entitle agency workers to the same pay and conditions as permanent staff after 12 weeks of employment. Minister Richard Bruton has resisted implementation...

The recent case of Patricia Heffernan v Dunnes Stores, held before the Employment Appeals Tribunal ("EAT"), highlights the procedural necessities that must be implemented by employers when they discover staff theft. In this instance the Claimant was an employee sales assistant who began working with the Respondent on 6 February 1999 following induction training and receipt of the staff...

Retailers who obtain information from customers through loyalty schemes, competitions or online registration forms must be aware of their responsibilities under the Data Protection Act 1998 (as amended in 2003.) In such instances the Retailer is recognized as a "data controller" and as such must comply with the Act in how they collect and use information. The basic rule applied is that...

It is a fact that franchises are generally a much safer bet for a new business than a start up.  The support of an established brand, local or global reputation, staff training and support are all very attractive for a new business owner when launching into the world of retail.  Unfortunately when it comes to negotiating your franchise agreement, the “one size fits all” approach...

What is the new Minister for Justice going to do about rents?  The recent cases from Burger King, Celtic Jewellers and Venu show that retailers are fighting back with their backs to the wall.  The Circuit Court are sending a clear message on Grafton Street – 53% down from the peak.  Unfortunately all the dithering from Givernment is leading to a complete collapse in confidence. ...

More landlords will lose retail tenants this year due to a number of factors.

"NAMA and the receivers are moving in and will have little or no patience. The tenant brand name means little and, with examinerships putting landlords at the back of the creditors queue, it is more important than ever for landlords to manage their tenant relationships and keep on top of their rent payments."...

John Hogan, partner,  was speaking this morning on Newstalk Radio "Breakfast Show" on the subject of retail rents.  John is an industry recognised expert on commercial property rents. To listen to this please use the link below. Select the date of Monday, 7^th February 2011, Part 1 then fast forward to approximately 7 minutes in - http://www.newstalk.ie/programmes/all/breakfast/listen-back/...